Review Lionsteel Q4ttro

  

-  a luxury EDC knife from Italy

A few years ago, Lionsteel released a knife named the T.R.E.—standing for "Three Rapid Exchange"—referencing its three opening methods and a clever feature that allowed both the flipper tab and the thumb stud plate to be unscrewed. It was considered so innovative that it won the "Overall Knife of the Year" award that same year.

That was back in 2015, so what could be more fitting than to mark its tenth anniversary in 2025 by releasing a model that serves as both a tribute and an upgrade—taking things a step further in every respect?

The knife was named Q4ttro. Both the name and the spelling hint at what it is all about. But more on that later.

Lionsteel Q4ttro

Just like its predecessor and the majority of knives in LionSteel’s catalog, it is designed by Molletta—whose real name is Michele Pensato*. If you are familiar with his work, it is not difficult to spot both his design elements and LionSteel’s specialties in this knife. I am thinking, for instance, of details such as rounded blade spines and the micro-pattern found on the titanium scales.

In terms of technology, the Q4ttro is also at the forefront regarding materials and, to some extent, innovations—even though it doesn't come close to the "spaceship" in LionSteel's catalog that is the ROK**.

I have previously reviewed the T.R.E.—the model this knife succeeds—although the version I own, strangely enough, lacks the very system that gave it its name.

Q4ttro är resultatet av ännu ett samarbete mellan Lionsteel och Molletta. På bilderna ovan är den ena flipperfenan avlägsnad

As is typical for LionSteel products, the Q4ttro comes in several versions. This particular model is made entirely of titanium, but it is also available with a presentation-side scale made of Micarta, G10, or carbon fiber. It is worth noting that the G10 and Micarta versions feature a G10 backspacer instead of a titanium one.

Short version: Lionsteel Q4ttro, a very likeable EDC knife made of exclusive materials, although perhaps with an opening method too much.

Blade

The blade shape is not unique in any way—neither for knives in general nor for LionSteel. However, the proportions bear the unmistakable stamp of Molletta, even if the belly is slightly less pronounced than is typical for his designs. It is clearly a drop-point blade, an appearance enhanced by a small swedge that both accentuates the lines and thins out the tip, making it more effective. The blade’s most distinctive feature is, of course, the prominent nail nick—or rather, the cutout that passes all the way through the blade to form a narrow, rectangular hole. It serves two functions, a point I will return to later.

The blade is 84 mm long and 3.8 mm thick—quite substantial for a knife of this size. The blade height is 25 mm.

The blade features a transverse semi-gloss satin finish. Markings are present but well-chosen in terms of format: small and relatively discreet. The presentation side displays the Lionsteel logo, along with "Maniago" and the steel type. The text "Molletta" appears on the opposite side.

As is typical for Lionsteel knives, the spine is rounded. This also applies to the transition between the blade and the base of the flipper tab—all examples of the attention to detail at which they excel.

The steel in this knife is of the same high quality as all the other materials—or how about CPM MagnaCut?

Like the other materials used in this knife, the blade steel is of the highest quality—take CPM MagnaCut, for instance. It is one of the latest materials generating buzz among enthusiasts—or rather, the online community. It is a so-called "super steel" that truly lives up to the name, offering exceptional corrosion resistance while also being capable of taking and retaining a razor-sharp edge. But the benefits don't stop there; this powder steel is also tough—a quality that is often difficult to combine with the others. This means the edge is highly resistant to chipping, something that cannot be said for all stainless steels.

Another somewhat unique characteristic is that MagnaCut—unlike other high-performance steels such as S90V and M390—is relatively easy to sharpen. The reason lies in having less chromium, both figuratively and literally: the carbides are smaller, making maintenance easier, and the percentage content is lower. In any case, we are talking about the *crème de la crème* here—among the finest steels you can find in a folding knife.

Of course, this assumes the steel has been properly hardened and heat-treated—something LionSteel has faced criticism for in the past. However, I must admit I haven’t experienced any issues with their knives. I suspect this is because my testing simply involves using the knives—albeit intensively and far more than I would under normal circumstances. I never try to "kill" them with insane stress tests or push the materials to their limits by forcing a failure. Nor do I test the knives using my own Rockwell tester or other machinery; I leave that to the metallurgy enthusiasts.

In this case, the hardness is rated at 60.5–62.5, which should be perfectly adequate for this type of steel. I certainly haven't noticed it being soft in any way.

The Q4ttro features a sleek drop-point blade with a slightly shallower belly than some other models from Molletta.

However, geometry and grind can be more important than the choice of material, and on that point, I have to offer some criticism. Lionsteel hasn't quite dared to trust the material enough to grind it sufficiently thin behind the edge. As it stands, the Q4ttro measures around 0.7 mm. MagnaCut is definitely capable of performing well with a thinner grind. I would like to see that figure nearly halved, or at least brought down below 0.5 mm.

The Q4ttro doesn't cut poorly—the factory edge was sharp enough—but it doesn't cut quite as well as it could have. 

Overall, however, I find this blade shape and size optimal for EDC use. It offers both a straight edge and a belly to work with. The latter is important in my book, as it facilitates tasks performed against flat surfaces; for instance, you can't perform small "rocking cuts" with a completely straight edge. The size provides enough edge for most tasks I can think of, with the exception of the very heaviest ones—though for those, it might be time to switch to a fixed-blade knife anyway.

I also like the tip, which is sharp enough for the small tasks I use it for. It is thin without being too fragile.

Although the Q4ttro doesn't have the best edge geometry, the full flat grind helps the blade glide through most materials with ease—especially everyday materials like cardboard and various types of plastic. The quality of the steel is evident in the long intervals between maintenance sessions. However, while writing this review, I noticed a small nick in the edge; I plan to grind it out and, while doing so, consider whether to slightly reprofile the blade.

    

Handle

If the blade’s standout feature is its superb material, the same can be said for the handle. It is made of titanium, a material used for the handle scales, backspacer, and pocket clip alike. Additionally, the presentation side features an inlay of multicolored carbon fiber. Yet, the defining characteristic of this knife is not the material itself, but rather how it has been finished; there are both major and minor details here worth examining.

A handle made entirely of titanium, including the backspacer. The presentation side features an inlay of "marble fat carbon fiber".

Lionsteel has many integral knives in its lineup, but the Q4ttro is not one of them; instead, this version features two standard titanium handle scales. Yet, "standard" doesn't quite do them justice, as they are more extensively machined than most knives.

The most obvious feature is the handle's brown-bronze anodized finish. Additionally, the presentation side has a milled recess designed to house a decorative carbon fiber inlay. It is also evident that care has been taken to round and bevel the edges. Lionsteel has even rounded the interior of the blade channel in an exemplary fashion—a detail that is sometimes overlooked. Simply put, the entire knife is exceptionally well-made.

Everything is titanium, from the finely rounded sides with their micro-pattern to the "floating" back spacer.

The same applies to the minimalist clip mount and—not least—the fact that, despite the knife not being a heavyweight, the interior has been skeletonized to reduce weight. There is a cutout beneath the carbon fiber, and even the lock bar has been lightened. Another detail on the handle scale is the triangular pivot screw; naturally, this prevents it from spinning freely when the blade tension needs adjustment. There is also a dedicated "landing zone" for the index finger when using the flipper mechanism; rather than a sharp edge, there is a recess that allows the finger to land more softly.

There are many details to examine on the Q4ttro, such as the quality of the chamfering where the index finger lands after using the flipper tab, the clip attachment, or the triangular pivot screw.

The attention to detail doesn't stop there; it is also worth noting that all the screws are driven in from the same side. The three screws holding the knife together are of the Chicago-screw type, preventing the threads from cutting directly into the titanium. They are T6 size—except for the pivot screw, of course, which is a T8. The only screws threaded directly into the titanium are the ones securing the carbon fiber scale. That scale, incidentally, is of high quality. The only potential criticism—if one must find one—is that its edges are quite noticeable to the touch.

Surrounding the perimeter is a reinforcement resembling a metal bolster. The entire handle features an intricate pattern that adds visual interest while providing some tactile feedback—though I wouldn't go so far as to say it makes the grip more secure.

Finally, we come to the backspacer, which is also crafted from the same anodized titanium as the rest of the handle. It is also what is sometimes referred to as a "floating" backspacer; its shape does not cover the entire spine, leaving sections open.

The handle is simple, fairly straight, and well-shaped, making it suitable for any grip.

Its size is comparable to the TRE, as the handles share significant similarities. However, everything here is slightly larger—measuring 112 mm in length, 12 mm in thickness, and around 25 mm in height—so it fills the hand better than its predecessor.

This size also allows all four fingers to fit perfectly. While the handle’s construction and details are sophisticated, its shape is not; rather, it is deceptively simple—the kind of simplicity found in great design that just works. It remains fully functional regardless of the grip: whether using a standard hammer or saber grip, holding the knife edge-up, or employing a reverse grip. It handles just as well in a pinch grip as it does in a full fist. Simply put: it is well made.

Opening and Lock

Beyond its fine materials and attention to detail, this is the area where the Q4ttro is meant to shine. It boasts no fewer than four different ways to open the blade. Two—or perhaps even three—of these methods involve the nail nick or the hole in the blade, while two are linked to the dual flipper tabs. The question that immediately arises is: do they work well, or is it a case of quantity over quality?

Here lies a partial explanation for the knife's name: it can be opened in no fewer than four different ways!

First, the knife can be opened using two hands. This is done quickly by gripping the cutout, which offers a good hold for the purpose. Nothing complicated there. That same cutout also serves as a blade hole—Spyderco style. However, given how narrow it is, the functionality isn't quite on the same level; you have to hit the right spot and press your thumb down firmly against the blade itself to generate the necessary friction. Once you do that, it works reasonably well—after all, the blade runs on ball bearings. Then there is the same rule that applies to other knives with this type of lock: you absolutely must not place a finger on the lock bar. That extra pressure makes it very difficult to deploy the blade.

The same notch or cutout also allows someone with a bit of manual dexterity to use a flick of the index finger from the other side to deploy the blade. The function isn't perfect here either; the resistance is tuned to accommodate the other two opening methods. But if you get the technique right, it works well enough.

The Q4ttro also features LionSteel's "REF" system, which means the flipper tab can be removed.

Then, it’s hard to miss the two flipper tabs. One is elegant, the other ugly. One is removable, the other fixed. The standard one—or the one on the spine, depending on your preference—is equipped with a so-called REF system, which is LionSteel’s name for a detachable flipper tab. The knife generally looks much better without it, but since it offers the best way to open the blade, I put it back on. It isn’t perfect, though; it’s quite small and somewhat angular in shape. That said, it’s better than having your finger slip off. It works reasonably well for a LionSteel, though snappy openings have never been their forte.

I am not, however, a big fan of the front flipper. If you turn the knife sideways in your hand and plan your move, it works. But it is neither small nor discreet. This is likely because it has to be large—a necessity arising from the fact that the tip area is already occupied, forcing the flipper tab lower relative to the pivot screw, which affects the geometry.

So sure, there are four opening methods, and all of them work, though perhaps none stands out as the absolute best.

Den här kniven har ett välfungerande ramlås 

The lock is straightforward. It is a well-made titanium frame lock featuring all the associated attributes—namely, a replaceable steel lock-bar insert with an overtravel stop. There is little more to say other than that it works well. The blade is held securely in place with no play in any direction, and the lock bar is easily accessible for disengagement thanks to the generous cutout in the handle scale.

To Carry

The Q4ttro weighs in at 106 grams. It isn't particularly heavy, and as I mentioned earlier, the handle is 11.2 cm long—nothing to be concerned about there, either. All in all, it’s a comfortable knife to carry in your pocket. Admittedly, metal parts protrude from the front end like a miniature airplane graveyard, but none of them snag on anything. The larger one points downward into the pocket—so don't keep anything else in there—and the other is fairly low-profile, albeit a bit too angular for my taste.

As for the surface finish, it doesn't interfere with either drawing or stowing the knife; the titanium's micro-pattern has no impact on that aspect of handling.

The clip is a milled titanium clip that matches the knife's appearance well and also performs effectively.

Another positive feature is that the clip—despite being a milled titanium design—works excellently. Sometimes you encounter versions of this type of clip that are essentially just a metal hook; that is not the case here. It is an elegant clip that complements the knife’s appearance well, especially since it shares the same color and pattern as the rest of the handle.

LionSteel opted to secure it with just a single screw, but a small locating pin prevents the clip from twisting sideways.

Its functionality benefits from the decision to keep the profile slim; this ensures sufficient tension to easily slip it over the edge of a pocket—such as on a pair of jeans. It handles most fabric thicknesses well, though perhaps not much beyond that.

To Conclude

In my opinion, the Lionsteel Q4ttro is a rather particular knife. I knew somewhat what to expect, as I own other knives from them designed by Molletta, yet there were still some surprises. I anticipated a highly refined knife featuring patterned, chamfered, and ground surfaces throughout. The specifications also hinted at top-tier materials—particularly the blade steel; while MagnaCut certainly wasn't brand new to the market, it was relatively untested in this specific context when the knife was released last year.

The promotional material also gave a hint as to how the knife could be opened—something I was naturally curious about!

Q4ttro is an excellent EDC knife—shown here alongside the TRE, the knife it pays tribute to and which preceded it.

However, I do have to offer some criticism in that regard. More options don't necessarily mean better. For one thing, there is a risk that the blade resistance isn't optimal for any single opening method. For another, the knife feels "cluttered" at the front end, featuring no fewer than four different opening methods—two of which are flipper tabs. As a side note, I also find that aspect less visually appealing.

Having multiple methods can also be tricky for experienced knife users, as you might find yourself hesitating over which one to choose. That said, it is something you can get used to with practice. For a while, I used the thumb hole without the spine flipper, but since the flipper works best, I ended up putting it back on.

I cannot help but conclude that, in this case, it is likely more a matter of realizing an idea than a considered decision based on necessity. "Three" was to be celebrated—and this through both "more" (in terms of scale) and "more" (in terms of an additional opening method).

I also feel that Lionsteel hasn't fully utilized the potential of MagnaCut. My advice, once again, is to go all out and keep the edge thin. After all, this is a small—well, not *that* small—folding knife intended for EDC use, not a tool for building shelters. But there’s bound to be some crazy YouTuber who manages to snap a blade. Unfortunately, that type of review contributes to some manufacturers designing their knives accordingly.

Lionsteel Q4ttro has stayed with me right into the autumn

It is also worth noting that the Lionsteel Q4ttro features a well-crafted handle that offers great comfort. I might not go so far as to call it an ergonomic masterpiece—I reserve that distinction for another Lionsteel model, the TM1—but it is certainly very good. The blade shape also makes for a highly capable EDC knife.

The fact that it is also a handsome knife (with the possible exception of the front flipper) certainly doesn't hurt. All in all, it is a highly potent knife with plenty of details for the enthusiast to examine and appreciate. I therefore recommend it to anyone looking for a sophisticated folding knife made from top-tier materials—one that stands out from the crowd. It has that special something: personality.

The recommended price on the website is €320, with retail prices in Europe starting at that figure and going up.

Lionsteel 

Specifications:

Length Overall: 200 mm

Length Folded: 112 mm

Weight: 106 g (weighed by me; stated 92 g, but I suspect that's for the Micarta version)

Blade Length: 84 mm

Blade Thickness: 3,8 mm

Blade Steel: CPM Magnacut

Handle: Titanium

Lås: Frame lock

Produced by: Lionsteel, made in Italy

/ J - treats himself to Italian luxury

He is both a knifemaker and a designer, and is the creative force behind most of Lionsteel’s more advanced models. In total, this amounts to nearly sixty (!) models when all variants are included. Examples include fixed-blade knives such as the Acha, T-series, M-series, and B40, as well as folding knives like the SR11, ROK, SR22, TM1, Skinny, and, of course, the T.R.E.

** There are grounds for calling the Lionsteel ROK the world's most technically advanced folding knife.

#knivesandbikes #aliaspostmortem #knivigtvarre 

Picture of the Day No. 294 "Mushroom Soup"

Now that I’ve officially started culinary school, it feels important to head out into the woods and harvest what nature has to offer. It’s quite fashionable these days—known in English as "foraging."

It’s always amusing when things get rebranded and become trendy. Picking mushrooms, berries, and the occasional herb is hardly a new concept in this country. On the other hand, we have the right of public access—something not every country enjoys, as we know. In my opinion, that is one of the best things about Sweden. Naturally, that right can influence one’s attitude toward the surrounding nature. 

But the phenomenon is a bit like when "gravel" suddenly comes into vogue and people feel compelled to buy special bikes designed for gravel roads. After all, you simply can't use an old nineties mountain bike—or a road bike with chunkier tires—for that. Oh no, it has to be something new and specialized. And yet, when I was growing up, there was only one paved road, which branched off twice. You could take it from Åby—where it split toward Berg on the way to Växjö—and make a detour to Rottne along the route. Everything else in the area where I grew up was gravel. Consequently, apart from the streets within the small village of Åby, every ride I took was a "gravel ride." Without even realizing it, I was incredibly trendy back then.

But back to foraging in the woods. It’s something anyone can do, though ideally, you’d be a "herbalist"—I didn't even know there was a specific word for a herb specialist. But there is, and according to one, there isn't all that much left to gather at this time of autumn. Still, you can pick rosehips and—well, not a hell of a lot else, aside from a massive amount of mushrooms, of course.

After a brief mushroom hunt, I found these. They were colorful and really stood out to me, so I ended up with a whole bagful* that I now need to clean and put to various uses. I’ll dry some to use in sauces over the winter, but the bulk of them will be transformed—along with butter, thyme, and a good stock—into a delicious mushroom soup.

"Mushroom soup" – Lionsteel Q4ttro out in the mushroom woods.

The knife posing so jauntily in the mushroom woods is, of course, the excellent Q4ttro folding knife from the Italian maker Lionsteel—a knife I am currently in the process of reviewing. Like its predecessor, the TRE, it was designed by Molletta and boasts a host of technical features and other details well worth examining.

On top of that, it features a blade made of MagnaCut—a steel that is incredibly hot right now, much like foraging itself. It is worth adding that the other materials are quite impressive, too. 

But more on that in the upcoming review. Right now, I’m off to make soup—not from a nail, but from a mushroom.

/ J - the Mushroomhunter

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

* To see if anyone actually reads footnotes, it should be noted that NO, I haven’t picked or eaten this or any other *Amanita* mushroom. However, I did find some much more poisonous specimens a short distance away—specifically, the death cap (*Amanita phalloides*). The effects of that one are no laughing matter. In any case, none of them should be consumed. 

Dagens bild nr 294 "Svampsoppa"

Nu när man formellt har börjat på kockutbildning känns det viktigt att ge sig ut i skogen och skörda vad naturen erbjuder. Det är lite på modet nu och på engelska kallas det för "foraging". 

Det är alltid kul när saker och ting döps om och blir trendiga. Att plocka svamp, bär och en och annan ört är inte direkt okänt i det här landet. Å andra sidan har vi allemansrätt och det har som bekant inte alla länder. Det är för övrigt en av de bästa sakerna med Sverige enligt mig. Men det förhållandet kan förstås påverka inställningen till den omgivande naturen. 

Men fenomenet blir lite som när "gravel" plötsligt blir på modet och det skall köpas specialla cyklar anpassade för grusväg. För det går ju inte att ha en gammal nittiotalsmountainbike alternativt en racer med grövre däck. Nej du, nytt och special skall det vara. Det trots att när jag växte upp fanns det bara en asfaltsväg som sedan grenade sig två gånger. Man kunde på den åka från Åby, där den grenade  sig mot Berg för att färdas mot Växjö och på vägen dit kunde man göra en avstickare till Rottne. ALLT annat kring området jag växte upp var grusväg. Således blev allt jag cyklade förutom gatorna inne i den lilla byn Åby, gravel. Utan att veta om det var jag trendig som fan när jag växte upp. 

Men tillbaka till att plocka saker i skogen. Det får man även om man helst skall vara "herbalist", jag visste inte ens att det fanns ett ord för örtspecialist. Men det gör det och enligt en sådan kan man nu på hösten inte samla så mycket längre. Men det går att plocka nypon och tja, inte så jäkla mycket mer förutom en ruskig massa svamp då.  

Efter en kort svampjakt så hittadeds de här. De var färgglada och stack ut tyckte jag så det blev en hel kasse* som jag nu skall rensa och göra lite olika saker med. Några skall jag torka och ha till såser under vintern men huvuddelen skall få tillsammans med smör och timjan och en god buljong förvandlas till en läcker svampsoppa.

"Svampsoppa" Lionsteel Q4ttro ute i svampskogen

Kniven som poserar så kavat i svampskogen är förstås den excellenta fällkniven Q4ttro från italienska Lionsteel. En kniv som jag som bäst håller på att skriva en recension om. Liksom sin föregångare TRE är den designad av Molletta och bjuder på en hel del tekniska och andra detaljer värda att studer. 

Utöver det har den ett blad som likt "foraging" är förbaskat hett för stunden och det är Magnacut. De andra materialen går inte av för hackor de heller kan väl tilläggas. 

Men mer om det i den kommande miljön. Nu skall jag koka soppa, inte på en spik men väl på en svamp. 

/ J - svampjägaren

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

* För att se om någon faktiskt läser fotnoter så bör det noteras att NEJ, jag har inte plockat och ätit vare sig den här eller andra flugsvampar. Dock hittade jag några mycket giftigare rackare en bit bort i form av lömsk flugsvamp. Effekterna av den skojas inte bort. Ingen av dem skall dock inmundigas. 

September

Yes, it has been September for a while now. Some might think it’s a bit late to be writing about a new month at this stage. But there are reasons why I’m running a little behind. Life got in the way—a phenomenon many of you will surely recognize. There have been some extremely positive events, and one that was less cheerful. For instance, my dear wife and I went on a trip to Dublin, where, among other things, we saw Bon Jovi. There is a lot to tell about that, but I’ll save it for another time.

However, things took a much sadder turn after that. My beloved grandmother passed away at the age of 92. That is a respectable age, yet the grief and sense of loss remain. She was one of the people who deeply influenced me and helped shape my childhood. Back then, we lived in Stockholm but frequently visited my grandparents down in Småland. On a few occasions, I spent entire summers there.

The last thing she said truly reflects the kind of person she was. Her heart was failing, and a very dangerous operation was absolutely necessary. When the doctor described the situation, she said...

"I love life, but I’m not afraid to die. Let’s do this!"

My mother quoted this to me at the funeral. An attitude worth admiring! I'm not quite there yet, I must admit.

My grandmother loved flowers, and I took this photo during a lunch break while thinking of her.

On a more positive note, I have embarked on yet another course of study at a mature age. This time, it is more practical than my previous academic pursuits. I am going to become a chef! Admittedly, I already call myself "The Swedish Chef" in knife-throwing circles—and that is no lie. I have worked as a chef for a few years, but now I am getting formal training as well! I have started my second week; naturally, it is intense at the start, with a lot of new information to take in. The connection to knives is, of course, not far-fetched, given that they are among the primary tools of the trade in a kitchen. I am not sure how natural a bridge that is to the subject, but that is how it turned out!

SRM Gent on another walk

Aside from that, there is a lot happening here on the blog as well—provided I can actually find the time to write it all down. Naturally, I have new knives to showcase. The list includes a rather eclectic mix—take, for instance, a handful of models from Civivi such as the Incindie, Over Yonder, and Neurohaptic. Those who follow me on Instagram will likely recognize a few of them. Beyond that, I plan to present a couple of throwing knives from Italy and Bodomar Knives; first up is a throwing version of the Glock combat knife. Also lined up is a hot new release from our friends at ANV Knives in the Czech Republic: a compact, EDC-oriented folding knife called the A090.

I also have a small lineup of knives waiting to be reviewed; first up is an elegant creation from Lionsteel - a Molletta design called the Q4ttro. Next in line is a rather brutal throwing knife: TacticalEdgedDojo's The Spike DC. I’ve now logged enough throws with it to offer an informed opinion.

Finally, there’s another somewhat unusual piece: a rescue knife from Al Mar with the aptly chosen name "Rescue Assist." That was more or less the plan. But as you know, things never quite turn out that way. Then again, if you don’t have a plan, you don’t have anything to deviate from, either!

/ J - overwhelmed

September

September ja, det har det varit ett tag nu. Kanske lite sent påtänkt att skriva om en ny månad nu kanske någon tänker. Men att jag ligger lite efter har sina orsaker. Livet kom emellan, ett fenomen som säkert många av er känner igen. Några saker har varit ytterst positiva och en mindre munter. Bland annat så har jag och min kära fru varit på en resa till Dublin och där bland annat sett Bon Jovi. Om det kan förtäljas mycket men det sparas.

Fast efter det blev det desto sorgligare. Min älskade mormor gick bort vid en ålder av 92. Det är en aktningsvärd ålder men sorgen och saknaden är där ändå. Hon var en av de personer som starkt präglat mig och bidragit till att forma min barndom. På den tiden bodde vi i Stockholm men hälsade ofta på morföräldrar nere i Småland. Vid några tillfällen spenderade jag hela somrarna där.

Det sista hon sade speglar väl hur hon var som person. Hjärtat höll på att ge upp och en mycket farlig operation som innebar kärlsprängning var av nöden tvungen. När läkaren beskrev situationen sade hon

"Jag älskar livet, men jag är inte rädd att dö. Nu kör vi!"

Min mamma citerade detta för mig vid begravningsceremonin. En inställning värd att beundra! Riktigt där är jag inte ännu måste medges.

Mormor älskade blommor och jag tog den här bilden en lunchrast och tänkte på henne

Mer positivt är att jag vid mogen ålder påbörjat ännu en utbildning. Den här gången mer praktisk än mina tidigare akademiska meriter. Nu skall jag bli kock! Nu kallar jag mig förvisso redan för "The Swedish Chef" i knivkastarkretsar och det är ingen lögn. Jag har jobbat som kock i några år men nu skall jag få den formella utbildningen också! Andra veckan är påbörjad och det är förstås intensivt i början med mycket nytt att ta in. Kopplingen till knivar är förstås inte så långt borta då det är ett av de främsta arbetsredskapen i ett kök. Jag vet inte hur naturlig den bryggan är till det ämnet men så blev den!

SRM Gent på en annan promenad

Bortsett från det händer det mycket här på bloggen också. OM jag bara hinner få det på pränt vill säga. Nya knivar har jag att presentera förstås. På den listan hittas en ganska spretig samling eller vad sägs om ett knippe knivar från Civivi som Incindie, Over Yonder och Neurohaptic. De som följer mig på Instagram känner säkert igen några stycken. Utöver det ämnar jag presentera ett par kastknivar från Italien och Bodomar Knives. Först ut är en kastversion av en Glock stridskniv. På kö står även en het nyhet från våra vänner i Tjeckien, ANV Knives. De har släppt en liten EDC-inriktad fällkniv kallad A090.

Sedan har jag en mindre kö med knivar som skall recenseras men först ut där är en elegant skapelse från Lionsteel, en design från Molleta kallad Q4ttro. Näst på tur en rätt brutal skapelse för kastbruk, TacticalEdgedDojos The Spike DC. Nu har jag tillräckligt med kast under västen för att kunna uttala mig om den.

Sist ut är ännu en skapelse som är en smula udda då det är en räddningskniv från Al Mar med det rätt logiska namnet Rescue Assist. Det var i stora drag vad jag hade tänkt mig. Men som ni vet blir det aldrig riktigt på det viset. Men har man ingen plan har man heller inget att bryta mot!

/ J - överväldigad

Fools Day

I don't know what to say about the day. In general, I agree with this summary of Wistikent.

Accurate observation as usual from Wistikent

It roughly translates to: 

"Imagine that once upon a time, it was so unusual that we lied to each other that the first day of April was a chirpy and cheerful event. Now it's mostly a sad reminder of the present."

With that in mind, it must be admitted that I was actually tricked by my wife this morning. I was supposed to drive her to work, and right after she stepped outside the door, she yelled "you have to come", to which I yelled back "why then?" but rushed out. "There's a dead bird over there", she says and points vaguely towards a corner of the carport. I start looking, and then I hear "April, April" behind me.

Fairly inoffensive. But still quite funny.

Otherwise, I've mostly wondered if Tello.ink is an April Fool's joke, more on that later, whether the current situation resolves or not. But I can say that at the time of writing, I'm not at all as happy with them as I was after the tattoo itself. Something I've talked about here! Now I'm rather upset. More on that later.

The kind of hard packages you like to receive, Q4ttro from Lionsteel

I'm so boring that I don't try to make any jokes of my own. Maybe because I'm quite tired for various reasons.

But despite that, a lot of texts are written for this blog. As usual, it's a mix of different posts, but mainly reviews in the near future. I'm actually not expecting a lot of new knives, and I have a certain backlog.

In it, you can find knives such as Q4ttro from Lionsteel, Jumping Jack from QSP, Sasaya from CJRB, Lemon Shark from Olitans and Revel from Artisan Cutlery. But first up is another knife from QSP called Dolphin.

Then there is no escaping the fact that there will be a lot written about knife throwing as well. For two very good reasons. My private investment towards the upcoming World Championships has just started, and the premiere date for the first training under the auspices of the new throwing club Växjö Sportkastning, a section of VAIS, is approaching.

So when I think about it, it could probably be a pretty varied compote next month too.

Hopefully, I see you here and maybe on the throwing range, my friends. 

/ J - not so cunning

April, april...

Jag vete fan vad jag skall säga om dagen. I största allmänhet håller jag med om den här sammanfattnignen av Wistikent.

Träffsäker betraktelse som vanligt från Wistikent

Med det i åtanke måste det faktiskt erkännas att jag faktiskt blerv lurad av min fru imorse. Jag skulle skjutsa henne till arbetet och strax efter att hon klev utanför dörren skrek hon "du måste komma", varpå jag skrek tillbkas "varför då?" men rusade ut. "Det ligger en död fågel där" säger hon och pekar lite diffust mot ett hörn i carporten. Jag börjar leta varpå jag hör "april, april" bakom mig.

Tämligen oförargligt. Fast ganska roligt ändå. 

I övrigt har det mest hänt att jag undrar om Tello.ink är ett aprilskämt, mer om det senare vare sig den nuvarande situationen löser sig eller ej. Men jag kan säga att jag i skrivande stund inte alls är lika nöjd med dem som jag var efter själva tatueringen. Något jag berättat om här! Nu är jag snarare tämligen upprörd. Mer  om det  senare. 

Den typen av hårda paket som man gillar att få, Q4ttro från Lionsteel

Jag är så tråkig att jag inte försöker mig på några egna skämt. Kanske för  att jag av olika anledningar är tämligen trött. 

Men trots det plitas det på en hel del texter till den här bloggen. Det är som vanligt en blandning av olika inlägg men främst blir det recensioner den närmastet tiden. Jag väntar faktiskt inte in så hemskt mycket nya knivar och har en viss back-log. 

I den hittas bland annat knivar som Q4ttro från Lionsteel, Jumping Jack från QSP, Sasaya från CJRB, Lemon Shark från Olitans och Revel från Artisan Cutlery. Men först ut är ytterligare en kniv från QSP kallad Dolphin. 

Sedan går det inte att komma undan att det kommer att bli en hel del skrivet om knivkastning också. Det av två mycket goda skäl. Min privata satsning mot kommande VM har precis startat och därtill närmar sig premiärdatum för den första träningen i regi av Växjö Sportkastning, en sektion i VAIS. 

Så när jag tänker efter kan det nog bli en rätt varierad kompott även kommande månad. 

Väl mött i etern och kanske på kastbanan go´ vänner!

/ J - inte så lurig

Ny kniv - Lionsteel Q4ttro

Den här kniven har som synes fått namnet Q4ttro vilket skall stavas på det där moderna viset som är ett ord, lite av en ordlek och logotyp, allt på en gång. Men det är inte  bara trendigt, det säger faktiskt något om själva kniven. Något jag återkommer till. 

Men det är att gå händelserna lite i förväg. I själva verket skall vi starta för över tio år sedan, närmare bestämt 2015. Det året släppte Lionsteel en kniv vid namn T.R.E där namnet stod för "Three Rapid Exchange" och syftade till de tre öppningsmetoderna. Det var inte bara mängden utan även sättet man kunde närma sig dem som gav den utmärkelsen "Overall Knife of the Year" vid Shot Show det året. Jag har tidigare recenserat T.R.E även om den varianten jag har, märkligt nog, saknar det system som gav kniven dess namn. 

Det är emellertid här Q4ttro kommer in i bilden. Fem myror är fler än fyra elefanter och fyra är mer än tre även om den ordleken bara fungerar på svenska. Men överlag är den här kniven större än föregångaren och den har ytterlige ett sätt att öppna kniven! 

Lionsteel Q4ttro

Lionsteels mest anlitade formgivare "Molletta" eller Michele Pensato som han heter, har förstås designat även den här modellen. Är man det minsta bekant med hans arbete är det nämligen svårt att inte se hans formspråk i linjerna. Om ni inte tror mig kan ni ta en titt på bilden nedan. 

Detsamma kan sägas om typiska drag som kan kopplas till Lionsteel som märke. Dit kan exempelvis tillskrivas den rundade bladryggen och mikromönstret på titanytorna samt hur låsarmen är utskuren. De är detaljer som ofta återkommer. 

Fem exempel på knivar designade av Molletta

Det kan direkt  sägas att Q4ttro är mycket lik T.R.E i flera avseenden även om det förstås finns rejäla skillnader, annars vore det inte mycket mening med kniven. Den första och största, ursäkta ordvitsen, är förstås storleken. Den här kniven är en storlek större helt enkelt. Det är för övrigt något jag verkligen uppskattar då det var en av få invändningar mot originalet. 

Q4ttro är 200 mm lång i utfällt läge och av det utgörs bladet av ett 84 mm långt och 3,8 mm tjockt stycke CPM Magnacut. Föregångaren hade M390 i bladet vilket är mycket fint det också men teoretiskt sett är det här ett steg upp och jag direkt avslöja att fabrikseggen på det här exemplaret är mycket bra.

Formen är en drop point med en distinkt partiell falskegg och ett tunt bladhål. Finishen är en tilltalande blank satin.  

 

En kniv som kännetecknas av Mollettas linjer, fyra öppningsmetoder och fina material

Modellen är en frame lock där låssidan är gjord i titan, oavsett variant. Presentationssidan kan dock fås i flera olika utföranden. Alternativen är G10, kolfiber, Micarta eller som här titan med ett inlägg av "fat carbon fiber". Titanet kan även fås i tre olika anodiserade utföranden. Det här är bronsvarianten. 

Tack vare det nätta formatet och materialet väger Q4ttro in på låga 92g vilka dessutom är mycket väl balanserade kan sägas. 

Utöver det ingår det i paketet keramiska kullager, en "flytande back spacer", även den i titan. I samma material är även clipet utfört för övrigt. Så sammantaget en mycket exklusiv kniv. Särskilt som den fått ett tillägg av Lionsteels "R.E.F.", de gillar akronymer, men det står för en teknik som gör att du avlägsna flipperfenan om du inte vill ha den på plats. För ändamålet medföljer små designade insexnycklar.  

Sedan får  jag förstås inte glömma det som är hela poängen med namnet, resten av öppningsmetoderna. Lionsteel ville slå på stort och räkna in alla och då hitttas följande: Först kan kniven öppnas med två händer underlättat av en nagelskåra/öppning i bladet. Den agerar även metod nummer två då det kan nyttjas som ett bladhål á la Spyderco. Till och en med en pekfingersnärt på baksidan av bladet fungerar kan jag säga riktat till konnesörerna, det går dock inte smidigt. 

Utöver det tilllkommer inte en utan TVÅ flipperfunktioner. Både den klassiska på ryggen av handtaget som jag var inne på men som i det här fallet fått sällskap av ytterligare en fena för att kunna agera frontflipper. Den senare kanske inte är vare sig perfekt eller snygg. Men voilá, hela fyra öppningsmetoder och av det följer namnet på kniven. 

Behövs alla de metoderna? Det kan kanske diskuteras men det ger många valmöljligheter och är definitivt ett koncept. Men mer om det och mycket annat i kommande recension av den här kniven. 

Dock kan redan nu avslöjas att det finns flera positiva saker att framhäva som byggkvalitet, materialval storlek, bladform, balans samt övergripande utseende. Lionsteel Q4ttro är vid första kontroll även sympatisk att hålla i. Det finns därmed ett mycket gott fundament för en utmärkt EDC-kniv i den något mer exklusiva skolan. 

Lionsteel 

/ J - på lejonjakt

#knivesandbikes #knivigtvarre

Review Lionsteel Skinny

 

-  Sleek and elegant knife with Italian finesse

Lionsteel Skinny, as the model is aptly named, was released in 2024. I've had it for quite a while now and can reveal that it quickly became and still is a favorite knife. The format is really well-suited for everyday use, making it an excellent EDC knife.

It's also pleasing to note that it's visually appealing and, as is customary with knives from this brand, it incorporates numerous technically advanced solutions. All seasoned with excellent materials. Ingredients that are a good foundation for a tasty dish. Now it remains to be seen whether that is true.

Lionsteel Skinny

Skinny is another example of a successful collaboration between the designer Pensato, also known as Molletta, and the Italian Lionsteel. There are two things that point to it having achieved some success. One is that it is still in the catalog, and the other is that it is available in no less than eleven different variants at this point.

The external dimensions are, of course, the same for all the knives, and so is the excellent blade steel. But the handles can be available in three variants of titanium or aluminum. A common procedure from Lionsteel when it comes to their integral knives. In addition, the blades can be available with or without a black coating in some cases, which increases the number of combinations.

If you are going to have a black blade, black and red are a pretty striking combination.

Short version: Lionsteel Skinny is the result of another collaboration between the Italian brand and one of their most sought-after designers, Molletta. A very successful one!

Blade

The blade shape of the Skinny is simple and straightforward, but still has some interesting details. It is a drop point that is 84 mm long and 20 mm high. Fairly traditional proportions that give a harmonious blade. The thickness is 3.5 mm. Nothing spectacular so far.

The details I mentioned are three. First, there is a distinct swedge/false edge, which is less visible on this blackened blade. Then you have two oblong depressions, one on each side. However, they are not only cosmetic but also fulfill a practical function. More on that later. The third detail is, of course, that the blade is blackened. Lionsteel calls this tone "oldblack". The marking is small and discreet. On the presentation side, you can read Lionsteel/Italy/Magnacut, and on the other side, it says Molletta.

The blackened blade is made of Magnacut-steel

The blackness hides an excellent blade steel that has also become a bit of the latest trend in the folding knife world. Of course, I'm talking about CPM Magnacut.

The steel has several eminent properties, and above all, it is the combination of them that makes it good. It is extremely rust-resistant while maintaining its sharpness very well, and it is also quite tough. Here, the stainless property is also reinforced by the black coating. But it is best known for keeping a good edge for an extremely long time. But it is assumed that it has been hardened correctly, in this case, to very high HRC degrees. Rumor has it that it is 63 HRC in this case. Lionsteel has apparently succeeded in this, as this knife just keeps cutting. 

The marking is discreet but reveals who designed the knife.

Once put to work, it is a competent blade. The tip is both strong and makes holes where it should. It is also easy to put some power behind the cuts with the Skinny as the knife, despite being light, feels strong and solid.

But then it was cutting anything other than plastic cans, pieces of wood, and cardboard. And that is where the rating is mixed. The sturdy, or rather quite obtuse edge, is certainly durable, but not optimal for everything.

Skinny is not at its best in the kitchen, but can still be used there if necessary.. 

. 

Cutting wood, hard plastic, and the like is nice. Approaching thinner fabrics and other, more detailed work doesn't feel as fun. The same can be said for things like fruit, vegetables, and other foods, not least root vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Now this is by no means a kitchen knife, but it happens that you go camping or that Skinny happens to be the backup knife you take with you when the business at work is moved to a croft over the summer. Or it happened to me on a few occasions.

In general, the blade works well. This is especially noticeable when I started on a larger amount of fairly dirty rope that needed to be processed. Nylon rope with sand particles wears down an edge. But the Magnacut blade holds up quite well there. Also, cardboard can be easily cut. So overall, the knife performs well. 

Handle

Given the name, the handle of this knife is very slim. In pure numbers, this means a length of 111 mm, a thickness of around 12 mm, and a height of 20 mm at most because the handle is shaped.

The material used is aluminum, and there is an inlay of Micarta on the presentation side. You may want to choose the titanium version if you don't like small marks on the aluminum handle. It simply patinas over time.

The handle has a Micarta inlay

But what distinguishes this handle the most is, of course, that it is an "integral", that is, that the handle is cut from a single piece of material, aluminum in this case. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this procedure. Theoretically, it should be stronger, but above all, it is a neat way to solve it. The disadvantage is, of course, that there are some manufacturing technical details to solve. Like how to fit ball bearings and locks into a laser-cut lump of metal, for example. This usually contributes to the price. 

This is what Lionsteel achieves with their SOLID technology, a handle made from a single piece of material, aluminum in this case.

In the hand, the knife feels pretty much like it looks. Slim and smooth, but also a bit thin and slippery. It's not something I use as an outdoor knife exactly. But the name reveals those properties quite clearly. For that reason, you don't need an extreme grip either. It's well thought out. I hate it when you combine grips from commando knives with small pocket knives. They are often hopelessly difficult to get in and out of pockets.

That's not where Skinny is. It's easy to carry, but in the hand it's still quite comfortable, and the finger guard and the beak at the back provide enough support. Despite its slim shape, Skinny is also large enough for even my hand to fit.

For being thin, the Skinny is comfortable in the hand. This is especially true for the saber grip.

The simple shape makes all grips work. But I like to use the Skinny best with a classic saber grip. Thumb on top and all fingers around the handle. In that grip, my little finger also ends up against the depression where the lanyard hole is found. It anchors the knife better.

In a hammer grip, the knife feels a bit too thin for my taste, but this is compensated for by the fact that with a guiding index finger on the back, it feels like a precision instrument. So the effect of having such a slim knife is that certain features are emphasized at the expense of others. The positive thing, however, is that the small clip mostly stays out of the way and does not cause any discomfort.

Opening and Lock

Skinny is one of those knives that can be opened in a couple of different ways. The most obvious is the rather discreet flipper tab. Then, of course, you can open the knife with two hands as part of the blade is visible and can be gripped. This process is especially easy, as the indentations on the blade I mentioned above help to improve the grip.

So much so that you can actually fold out the blade by pressing your thumb against it if you wish.

Here you can see the small flipper, which can also be removed.

To make the Skinny usable even in parts of the world where quick release is not allowed to be combined with locks (read Germany), you can remove the flipper tab itself. Lionsteel calls the technology REF - Removable Flippertab. You simply take a T6 key and remove it if you wish. In addition to making the knife legal in more jurisdictions, it makes the knife both more streamlined in the pocket and, in my opinion, also a little nicer!

When it is in place, it is a pretty good flipper function for Lionsteel. It is rarely their best area otherwise. But here you get a fairly snappy action, but only if the tab is pulled back. Pressing it does not help at all. The fact that the blade gets fairly good speed can be attributed to the use of IKBS ball bearings.

The lock bar is quite roughly cut. I have a lock bar insert combined with an overtravel stop.

The lock is exemplary

Combining Solid technology/integral handle with materials like aluminum poses challenges that must be solved. One is, of course, the same as with frame locks in titanium, and that is that the contact surface between the blade and the lock bar wears out. This is fixed with a combined lock bar insert and overtravel stop. The latter is also needed to avoid accidentally destroying the lock.

Because that's where another subtlety comes into play. It doesn't really work with just any type of aluminum. You need an alloy that flexes enough for the lock to work without suffering from metal fatigue. A technique that Lionsteel has mastered by now.

The lock function is excellent. The lock engages every time the knife is opened, regardless of how it happens. There is no movement in the blade, and it is relatively easy to release. I write relatively because it is a thin knife, which means that even though there is a recess on the opposite side to reach the lock bar, you can sometimes slip.

To Carry

The consequences of the design choices made for this knife are that it is eminently pocketable. It simply doesn't get much better than the Skinny in that regard. Especially not if the flipper is removed.

The explanations for this are found on several levels.

The clip is small but works well. The screw allows you to change sides if desired.

Basically, you have a slim and thin knife that takes up little space physically. Then it is made with a technology and a shape that means that there is nothing that can get in the way. Since the knife also lacks thumb studs and other things that can get stuck, such interference is also removed.

In addition, it can be added that the manufacturing technology, in combination with the material choices that follow it, gives a very low weight. Skinny weighs no more than 73 grams! A figure that was, incidentally, a few grams less on my scale.

This much, or rather little, of Skinny, is visible when carried in a pocket

When these features are combined with a small, simple, and well-functioning deep ride clip, success is a fact. It is also removable using the included tools.

The size of the ramp and a well-balanced tension in the clip, combined with the smooth surface underneath, make it very easy to both pull and put away the Skinny.

To Conclude

As is often the case with Lionsteel's folding knives, or at least those in the "Solid" series, there is a lot of hi-tech and know-how baked into the knife. In Skinny, you can find that very technology, which is Lionsteel's method for manufacturing integral handles in titanium and aluminum. They are also pretty much alone in the latter. There is also REF, which stands for their removable flipper tab. In addition, there are IKBS ball bearings, and the materials in the blade and handle are not ashamed of themselves either. A solid little package, in other words.

Lionsteel Skinny is an excellent EDC knife, accompanied by another favorite from the same company and designer, the TM1. Also, an integral made of Micarta

I also want to give a thumbs up for the design. Molletta's design is recognizable with soft curves and a sweeping, substantial belly on the blade. Although the last detail is, of course, smaller on such a slim blade.

Speaking of blades, Lionsteel has somewhat returned to an old sin. They have forgotten how to make a knife that cuts really well. All the prerequisites are there, but they have neglected them. The blade could have been three millimeters instead of 3.5, considering how small the knife is. This is not a hunting or outdoor knife. Then the grinding bevel is only seventeen millimeters, but what is really a problem is that it ends with 0.6 mm of material behind the fairly steep edge. So even though the knife came sharp and is easy to maintain, it does not cut as well as it could.

The question is whether it is the material that the manufacturer does not trust or whether it is the end user. Magnacut could probably do with half that thickness and still be strong enough. In return, you would get a less steep edge angle, et voilá, a knife that cuts like a laser.

For this reason, despite its name, Skinny is more of an EDC knife that is better suited for cutting twine and rope than slicing carrots or plucking a skewer out of your hand. It is a good everyday companion but is clearly geared towards more robust tasks.

An excellent partner in all weathers. Here on an early spring day in March

That said, I would highly recommend the Lionsteel Skinny as a really good EDC knife. It does everything you would expect from one with flying colors. It's also nice to look at and comes with a lot of fun technology if you appreciate that kind of thing. The price for this version is around 200 euros at the moment. 

Lionsteel 

Specifications:

Length Overall: 200 mm

Length Folded: 111 mm

Weight: 72 g (weighed by me, stated 73g)

Blade Length: 84 mm

Blade Thickness: 3,5 mm

Blade Steel: CPM Magnacut

Handle Material: Aluminium, integral, Micarta inlay

Lock: Frame Lock

Produced by: Lionsteel, Made in Italy

/ J - not as skinny as his knife

#knivesandbikes #aliaspostmortem #knivigtvarre